Mahonia nervosa

Cascade Oregon Grape

Cascade Oregon Grape
aka Berberis nervosa, Dull Oregon-grape, Dwarf Oregon-grape, Cascade Barberry. This low growing evergreen shrub, less than 2′ (60 cm) has 9 – 19 leathery leaflets (each with one center vein) that can turn reddish, yellow or purplish in late season. If observed closely the flowers, which cluster on a separate short stem, or raceme, are quite attractive and whimsical. The dark blue berries form clusters that look like small grapes. Prefers drier conditions and common in the understory of Douglas-fir forests mostly below 3,000′ elevation.

Family:

Berberidaceae - BARBERRY FAMILY

Genus:

Mahonia for Bernard McMahon, Thomas Jefferson's gardening mentor.

Species:

nervosa means 'nerved' in reference to veins on the leaves
Photo location: From several locations including the Paul Peak Green Lake trails.